Today, in Phnom Penh, the ASEAN-Malaysian Business Chambers Summit 2024, a pivotal event that brought together representatives from Malaysian business communities across Southeast Asia, showcased the dynamic business environment within ASEAN and highlighted new investment opportunities in the region.
Organised by the Malaysian Business Chamber in Cambodia (MBCC) and held at the Sun and Moon Riverside Hotel, this year’s Summit marked a historic milestone with its first gathering under the banner of Malaysian Business Chambers in ASEAN (MBCs ASEAN). The rebranding underscores Malaysian business chambers’ unity and growing influence across Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Indonesia. Collectively, these chambers form one of ASEAN’s most active and influential networks, representing Malaysian businesses operating in all ten ASEAN member states.
The event was graced by prominent dignitaries, including Malaysian Ambassador to Cambodia Shaharuddin Onn and Chea Vuthy, Secretary General of the Cambodian Investment Board of the Council for the Development of Cambodia (CDC) and Chairman of the Administration of the Special Economic Zone.
In his keynote address, MBCC President Oknha Tan Khee Meng celebrated the transformation of the organisation into MBCs ASEAN, emphasising its role in fostering regional collaboration and economic growth.
“This year, we celebrate the transformation of our platform into MBCs ASEAN—a unified, dynamic network representing not just the interests of Malaysian businesses in ASEAN but also the collective legacy we are building for Malaysia in the region. Through cross-border trade, investment, and collaboration, we are creating bridges of opportunity, fostering innovation, and strengthening the ties between Malaysia and our ASEAN neighbours,” said Oknha Tan.
He further noted the responsibility of Malaysian entrepreneurs across ASEAN to represent their nation with pride while building bridges of cooperation and innovation.
The morning session featured presentations from representatives of Malaysian business chambers in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Indonesia. Each delegation shared insights into their respective markets, performance highlights, and projections for 2025, offering a comprehensive overview of the region’s economic landscape.
Malaysian Ambassador Shaharuddin Onn commended MBCC’s efforts in organising the Summit, highlighting the Chamber’s dedication to strengthening the Cambodia-Malaysia business connection.
Speaking on behalf of the Cambodian government, CIB Secretary General Chea Vuthy expressed optimism about the role of MBCs ASEAN in attracting Malaysian investment to Southeast Asia, particularly Cambodia.
“We hope MBCC and MBCs ASEAN will act as ambassadors, drawing more Malaysian investors to the region. Cambodia offers vast opportunities, and we look forward to building stronger economic partnerships with Malaysia,” said Vuthy.